The government is balancing compassion with stricter border control as it manages the influx of Venezuelan nationals, National Security Advisor Captain Gerald Gouveia Sr. said.
Speaking on the podcast SOURCES, Gouveia highlighted the administration’s efforts to provide assistance to migrants fleeing economic collapse and political instability, while also ensuring that all arrivals are legally documented and monitored.
“We have extended a hand of humanity. We have had people arriving here in boats — they were hungry, there were pregnant women and children. No policy could ignore the humanity we were faced with,” Gouveia said.
He noted that arrivals include both economic migrants and Guyanese returning from Venezuela, but stressed the need for a structured approach as migration continues.
“As time evolved, it is very clear we have to have a better handle on this,” Gouveia said, noting that migrants found living in Guyana illegally after the registration process will face deportation.
The government is rolling out an Electronic Identification (E-ID) card system to register and regulate both citizens and foreign residents. Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond said all migrants will have a grace period to register and obtain an E-ID Resident Card, with those failing to comply subject to legal sanctions and deportation.
“Persons who are in Guyana illegally will be given time to register and have this E-ID card. Without it, they will not be able to access any services,” Walrond said.
She also emphasised that the system is meant to enhance security, not to “legitimise illegal migrants,” and that foreign-issued E-ID cards will expire once the authorised stay ends.
The E-ID initiative is also designed to monitor border movements, improve service delivery, and prevent identity fraud.
Gouveia addressed security concerns following the October 26 bombing at a Mobil Gas Station in Georgetown, which killed six-year-old Soraya Bourne. The prime suspect, Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo, was confirmed to have entered Guyana illegally just hours before the attack.
“While Guyana has always been peaceful, we have never had a situation where a foreigner could come into our country and commit an act like this. Our citizens need to be more sensitive and more alert to anomalies,” Gouveia said.
He added, “We are moving in a new direction. Prosperity attracts attention — and sometimes, disruption. If you see something, say something.”
President Irfaan Ali condemned the bombing as a “horrific act of terrorism” but urged citizens not to let fear lead to discrimination.
“Guyana has long been a land where immigrants come seeking refuge, not danger. Yes, we must strengthen our systems of monitoring, screening, and enforcement, but let us not succumb to the temptation to paint all immigrants with the same brush,” he said.
He also said the government will act “vigilantly, strongly, and aggressively” to protect citizens and sovereignty. Authorities have indicated they will seek the death penalty for those convicted under Guyana’s anti-terrorism laws.
“The Government of Guyana will continue to protect its borders, modernise national security systems, and provide refuge responsibly — guided by compassion, vigilance, and the rule of law,” Gouveia said.
